Use of a single layer extramucosal suture for intestinal anastomosis in children.

We report our experience using an interrupted single layer extramucosal suture technique to construct both large and small bowel anastomoses in children. There were 75 anastomoses constructed in 68 children without any clinical evidence of a leak or any complications attributable to the anastomosis. Function after completion of the anastomosis was rapid. The median time for the passage of the first stool after operation was 46 h. This technique allowed construction of an end to end anastomosis with minimal reduction of the lumen even when there was great disproportion between the ends of intestine. It was therefore particularly suitable for the anastomosis of bowel of very small calibre.